Abstract
Accessory maxillary ostia (AMOs) are relatively common anatomical variants of the paranasal sinuses. They present as small, oval or circular openings found at or near the maxillary sinus, in the posterior nasal fontanelle, anterior nasal fontanelle, or, rarely, in the hiatus semilunaris. We present a unique cadaveric report of bilateral AMOs, exploring the causes, associated findings, and anatomical variations within the maxillary sinus. During the routine dissection of the nasal cavity, three AMOs were discovered in an 84-year-old female donor, who passed away from a myocardial infarction. No other past medical history was obtained from the file due to the anonymous nature of the donation program. On the left side, there was one AMO in the posterior fontanelle, lying parallel to the semilunar hiatus and measuring 7 mm × 4 mm. Upon removal of the middle turbinate, another AMO, lying perpendicular to the semilunar hiatus, was identified, measuring 5 mm × 3 mm. On the right side, there was one AMO in the posterior fontanelle, lying parallel to the semilunar hiatus and measuring 7 mm × 4 mm. When dissecting down to the maxillary sinus, a soft, non-friable, nodular growth was found in the left maxillary sinus, while the right maxillary sinus appeared normal. The primary maxillary ostium in the semilunar hiatus seemed to be normal on both sides, as well as the rest of the nasal cavity. This case illustrates a rare presentation of AMO, emphasizing the importance of understanding anatomical variants within the paranasal sinuses. The dimensions and positions of AMOs documented in this case report can serve as a valuable reference, helping endoscopic sinus surgeons identify these variants and develop novel techniques to repair them seamlessly. Furthermore, this case presents a unique finding within the maxillary sinus that could explain the presence of multiple AMOs on one side, compared to the other. While the relationship between AMOs and chronic maxillary sinusitis has been well documented, future studies could explore the relationship between AMOs and nodular growths within the maxillary sinus.